Can-Restore, Inc.http://www.can-restore.com
A Full Mitigation & Restoration CompanyTue, 26 Sep 2017 12:15:49 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.2Why Does Cleaning Smoke Damage Seem Like Such a Nightmare?http://www.can-restore.com/cleaning-smoke-damage/
http://www.can-restore.com/cleaning-smoke-damage/#respondTue, 26 Jul 2016 11:27:45 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1864Cleaning smoke damage is no joke. When we’re talking about cleaning smoke damage, we’re talking about a serious job that’s no laughing matter. It doesn’t, however, have to be a nightmare, even it if might seem like one. Getting informed is a great step to reducing the horror that smoke damage can present. Here’s everythingRead more

When we’re talking about cleaning smoke damage, we’re talking about a serious job that’s no laughing matter. It doesn’t, however, have to be a nightmare, even it if might seem like one. Getting informed is a great step to reducing the horror that smoke damage can present. Here’s everything you need to know about smoke damage, including why cleaning it can seem like such a nightmare.

What’s the Deal with Smoke from a Fire?

All smoke is not created equal. What makes up smoke? It’s not just the flames itself, but what is burning during the fire that determines the composition of smoke. If mostly wood and organic materials burn, the smoke is very different than if a lot of synthetic materials burn. No matter the fuel, smoke generally consists of chemicals, liquids, solids, and gasses that are produced by the fire as it burns in addition to carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and soot.

Do You Tackle the Smoke Residue First?

When people think about cleaning up smoke damage after a fire, most think first of the soot and smoke residue because that is what you can see. The important thing is to tackle the smoke residue first. The tricky part is understanding what the smoke residue is made up of and how best to approach the cleanup.

This is one of the reasons smoke damage cleanup can seem like such a nightmare. If you clean up the smoke with the wrong products and tools, it can cause more damage and can result in an unsuccessful cleanup. Why? Because smoke from different types of fires is different. It requires different cleaning processes depending on what was burning.

Are We Talking about a Dangerous Job?

Cleaning up after a fire is never fun, but it can also be dangerous if not done properly. Not only do you have to be aware of the debris and possibly compromised structure of the home, but you have to be aware of the dangers of the smoke residue.

Synthetic materials, such as furniture, flooring, toys, and appliances, are increasingly common in the average home. When this type of material burns, it leaves behind smoke and soot residue that is smeary and difficult to clean up, but the residue is also toxic and dangerous to breathe and to touch. Cleanup needs to include personal protection including long sleeves and pants, protective eyewear, protective face masks, and gloves. This is true of all smoke cleanup, as all of it is potentially a hazard to your health.

What about the Smell?

When we start talking about smoke odor, we start talking about the real nightmare in the cleanup process. Why? Because smoke odor is real, it’s terrible, and it’s incredibly hard to get rid of. Smoke particles float through the air into every nook and cranny of your home. It goes behind walls, under flooring, into vents, and it settles on your belongings. And the odor goes with it.

Think you can open some windows and air it out enough to settle back in? Think again. Houses have been torn down due to seemingly everlasting smoke odor. However, when treated properly, you can get rid of smoke odor. Restoration professionals have the tools, the knowledge, and the experience to address the smell without leaving you living in a bad dream of bad odor.

Smoke Damage Restoration in Canton, GA

A house fire is one of the worst things you can experience. It is, in itself, a bit of a nightmare. The cleanup, however, doesn’t have to be, and that includes the smoke cleanup.

If you have a fire in your house, don’t try to manage the cleanup on your own. Contact Can-Restore for help with cleaning smoke damage by clicking or calling (770) 735-2695.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/cleaning-smoke-damage/feed/0How Long Do Water Damage Repairs Take and Why?http://www.can-restore.com/water-damage-repairs/
http://www.can-restore.com/water-damage-repairs/#respondTue, 12 Jul 2016 11:12:23 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1858Here’s what you should expect from dreaded water damage repairs. Are water damage repairs on your back-to-school list? Probably not. But if you have water in your house, it’s going to end up at the top of your priority list whether you like it or not. Understanding the ins and outs of dealing with waterRead more

Are water damage repairs on your back-to-school list? Probably not. But if you have water in your house, it’s going to end up at the top of your priority list whether you like it or not. Understanding the ins and outs of dealing with water damage can take the uncertainty and dread out of the process. Here’s the lowdown on water damage repair, including how long it takes. Finally, you’ll also learn why it takes so long.

What Constitutes Water Damage?

Water damage is defined as the presence of water where it doesn’t naturally flow that can cause damage or loss including wood rot, rust, material de-lamination, and mold growth.

When water damage occurs it can cause the materials that make up the construction of your home to need repair or replacement, and it can damage or destroy the furniture, appliances, and belongings in the home as well. It can be as minor as water spots or as major as a complete destruction of property.

What Causes Water Damage Besides a Natural Disaster?

First, it’s important to understand that water damage in a home can come from a variety of sources. In Atlanta, rain and flooding aren’t generally the most common causes. Instead, residential water damage can often come from something as simple as a leaky faucet to something as major as frozen pipes that burst.

You could end up with damaged pipes and drains to sinks, appliances, and even air conditioner drains. Also you might have leaking toilets, sinks, dishwashers, and washing machines. Furthermore, you might even have damage to your roof or siding from a storm. These are some of the most common reasons you’ll find water in your home where you don’t want it.

What Happens During Water Damage Repair?

A good restoration company will go through a series of steps to ensure proper and complete repair and restoration of your home.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

24-hour emergency response when you have water in your home

Damage assessment

Water extraction to remove as much water as possible, as quickly as possible

Drying of the area and the structure including use of industrial fans, specialty flooring, cavity, under cabinet, and inner-wall drying equipment, and dehumidifiers

Antimicrobial treatment to prevent mold and bacteria

Dry cleaning of the area and the personal property affected by the water

Floor, carpet, and upholstery cleaning

Sewage cleanup, if necessary

Mold inspection and treatment, if necessary

Repair and reconstruction of property and home structure

Deodorizing

Restoration of furniture, documents, and electronics

And finally, air scrubbing to remove any lingering odors from the water

How Long Does It Take to Complete Water Damage Repairs?

Restoration after the presence of indoor water isn’t always a long and drawn out process. It really depends on how much water was involved, how long it sat before it was discovered, and the extent of the damage. Ultimately, making sure the restoration is done properly is going to prevent future damage and additional, costly repairs down the road.

First, it’s important to understand that this isn’t a task you should try to manage yourself. When you have water in your house, it can affect areas you can’t see, with results you can’t imagine. Having a professional team come to evaluate the damage and create a treatment plan is crucial. Patience is key during the cleanup, but don’t wait to make the call when you see water. In the end, the longer it sits, the more damage it can, and will, do.

Atlanta’s Water Damage Experts

If you have water damage in your Atlanta house, timing is critical. Therefore, the sooner the process gets started, the more likely you’ll have a complete and successful cleanup. Trusting a team of professionals with experience and state-of-the-art equipment is the best way to get the results you need, in a timeframe that works for you and your life.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/water-damage-repairs/feed/0How Will Needing Fire and Water Restoration Affect My Home and My Family?http://www.can-restore.com/needing-fire-and-water-restoration/
http://www.can-restore.com/needing-fire-and-water-restoration/#respondTue, 28 Jun 2016 12:05:16 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1222Learn what to expect when you’re needing fire and water restoration. Why might you be needing fire AND water restoration services at the same time? Because water is used to put out a fire, and often times it’s a lot of water, which can cause more damage than the fire itself. Now that you areRead more

]]>Learn what to expect when you’re needing fire and water restoration.

Why might you be needing fire AND water restoration services at the same time? Because water is used to put out a fire, and often times it’s a lot of water, which can cause more damage than the fire itself. Now that you are aware of this likelihood, the next thing to know is how fire and water restoration will affect your home and your family.

What Happens After the Fire?

When a fire hits your home, it can cause feelings of panic, fear, uncertainty, and loss. Once the fire is out and the smoke has cleared, it’s time to repair and restore your home. But what does that mean? There are many things that can come into play when it comes to post-fire repair.

The primary factors that affect a home during a fire are flames, smoke, and water. Each causes a significant amount of damage when it occurs, and smoke and water can continue to cause damage the longer it sits without being addressed.

Smoke is incredibly corrosive and can cause discoloration of appliances, paint, wallpaper, and fabrics as well as etching on windows and other glass. It also smells horrendous. The odor from the smoke residue alone can cause a home to be unlivable.

Water is another huge issue. The water is used by firefighters to extinguish the flames. The water does its job, but it also runs down and through the home, into areas you can’t see. The challenge with water is that it can cause catastrophic damage including cracking and warping of wood structural supports, disintegration of drywall, rust and damage to the components of appliances, cracking and breakdown of flooring and carpeting, and worst of all, mold. Mold can be dangerous and damaging all on its own, and water that’s left can be the perfect breeding ground for mold.

What Does Fire and Water Restoration Include?

To feel at ease with the restoration of your home after a fire, it helps to know what to expect from the process. Here are the key steps.

Water extraction: this is the number one priority! Before any other repair or restoration efforts can begin, the space must be water-free.

Drying: this step is crucial to ensure the excess moisture is removed not only from the structure and the rooms, but also from the air in the home. It’s the best way to ensure additional damage is prevented and mold is stopped in its tracks.

Smoke residue cleanup: each fire is different, and each type of smoke, as a result, is different, depending on the fuel that burned. Cleaning up the smoke residue needs to be done thoughtfully and carefully by trained restoration specialists due to its potentially toxic and corrosive nature.

Smoke odor treatment: there is nothing quite like the smell after a house fire. It can be completed overwhelming and can make it impossible to live in your home. Proper clean with the right tools, products, and equipment, including ozone treatment, is the best and only way to get rid of the odor.

Repair and restoration: once the water is cleaned up, the smoke residue is gone, and the odor has been treated, it’s time to repair and restore. This step includes everything from packing and storing your salvageable belongings to demolition of areas that need complete rebuild. The restoration of your house is what makes it possible for you to return home. Your belongings will be restored including furniture, electronics, and documents, and your home will be repaired including the walls, flooring, and even the structure.

Understanding what happens during fire and water restoration can help you get a feel for how it will affect not only your home but also your family. No matter what, having a good restoration company on the project can help you and your family to get back home after a fire.

Contact our team of experts at Can-Restore for help with fire and water restoration by clicking the link or calling (770) 735-2695.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/needing-fire-and-water-restoration/feed/02 Storm Damage Services You May Have Heard of, and 1 You Haven’thttp://www.can-restore.com/storm-damage-services/
http://www.can-restore.com/storm-damage-services/#respondTue, 14 Jun 2016 12:23:47 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1215What do you need to know about storm damage services? When the weather turns nasty, storm damage services could be in your future. You may be familiar with some common storm damage services, but if you haven’t had damage from bad weather before, you might be surprised by all of the ways you could needRead more

When the weather turns nasty, storm damage services could be in your future. You may be familiar with some common storm damage services, but if you haven’t had damage from bad weather before, you might be surprised by all of the ways you could need a professional restoration company afterward. Let’s break it down. Keep reading for the three most common types of storm damage, and how they get fixed. The last one might surprise you.

#1 Most Common Type of Storm Damage Services: Flood Cleanup and Restoration in Atlanta

Most storms, especially in the south, come with a lot of moisture. Rain is a huge factor in seasonal bad weather, which is why flooding is a primary cause of damage—not only during the storm but after as well.

Floods from rain can come from a variety of sources. It can come in through leaks in the roof, through the foundation that may be cracked or compromised; it can get in if the landscaping and grading around the house aren’t done properly, and it can definitely be a factor with natural disasters and regional flooding.

What type of restoration is necessary with flooding? The key is water extraction. Water is incredibly damaging to your home and your belongings. It can cause rot, bowing and warping to the wooden structure and supports, deterioration of the drywall, rust and damage to appliances, breakdown of the materials in flooring and carpeting, and, worst of all, the growth and spread of mold in your home.

Getting the water out quickly is critical to a complete and successful restoration. The longer water sits the more damage it will do. A good restoration company will be on site quickly, with 24/7 emergency response, to start the cleaning, drying, and restoration process.

#2 Most Common Type of Storm Damage Services: Wind Damage Repair

High wind not only feels chaotic and dangerous, it can be. And there isn’t just one generic type of wind. There’s straight-line wind, downdrafts, downbursts, microbursts, gusts, derechos, and even something called a haboob. All of these can contribute to damage to your property.

Wind damage can range from leaves blown from branches and inside-out umbrellas to broken branches, downed trees, and severe structural damage to your home. Debris can be blown onto your home causing damage to siding, gutters and downspouts, roofing, windows, and porches. It can damage or destroy lawn furniture, landscaping, and outbuildings and sheds. If the wind is strong enough, it can create negative pressure within a building that is strong enough to pull apart entire walls and damage the structure of a home.

The first step to restoration from wind damage is to secure the property to make sure it’s safe. The next steps include assessing the damage, checking the structural integrity of your home, and making necessary repairs.

This doesn’t sound right. How can a thunderstorm cause damage that’s different than flooding or wind damage? As surprising as it might be, thunderstorms are more than just loud light shows. They can cause as much damage as wind, sometimes even more.

The damage that is most common during a thunderstorm comes from wind, but another common result of thunderstorms is hail damage. Surprised? You’re not alone. Hail doesn’t seem like a common issue in the warm climate of the South, but when it hits it can damage roofs, siding, windows, cars, patron furniture, landscaping, and sheds.

No matter what type of storm heads your way this summer, you should be prepared to deal with storm damage. Having a good restoration company in your corner can take the stress out of it and give you peace of mind that the repairs will be done right.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/storm-damage-services/feed/0Can You Really Remove Smoke Odor Without Worrying About that Lingering Smell?http://www.can-restore.com/remove-smoke-odor/
http://www.can-restore.com/remove-smoke-odor/#respondTue, 24 May 2016 13:37:36 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1210How to actually remove smoke odor. If you have a fire in your home, one of the priorities is to remove smoke odor from the house. Not only are you trying to put your life back together after a devastating and often terrifying event, but you’re also trying to get back into your home andRead more

If you have a fire in your home, one of the priorities is to remove smoke odor from the house. Not only are you trying to put your life back together after a devastating and often terrifying event, but you’re also trying to get back into your home and have it be livable and in pre-fire condition. While smoke damage can be a challenge, it’s not insurmountable. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Smoke?

Seems like a funny question, but smoke is made up of a combination of chemicals and tiny particles, generally some liquid, some solid, and some gas, that are produced when a fire burns different materials, and the smoke is what’s left. Smoke always contains carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and soot, which is made up of particulate matter.

Visible smoke is mostly carbon, oils, and ash and is a result of incomplete combustion, which is generally what happens in a house fire because not everything is completely burned. Smoke is incredibly dangerous, causing nearly 75% of fire-related fatalities, because, for one, it’s superheated and can burn the airway making it impossible to breathe, but it also reduces the amount of available oxygen and replaces it with other toxic gasses.

Why Does Smoke Smell So Bad?

There’s nothing like the smell of a campfire to make you nostalgic. It smells so good and earthy. A house fire? Not so much. Why? Because a campfire burns wood, an organic material that results in smoke and soot that is made up of water, organic compounds, minerals, and carbon. A house fire generally burns a multitude of synthetic materials and chemicals including appliances, furniture, synthetic flooring, paint, cleaning products, and plastic household tools, toys, and decorative items.

When household items burn, they create smoke that is toxic and filled with particulates of the fuel that was burned. This is why it is so dangerous and why it has such an overwhelming and unpleasant smell.

Why Does Fire Smoke Odor Stick?

Fire smoke odor lingers. And lingers. And lingers. Unless it’s treated properly, it can be next to impossible to get rid of the smoke odor effectively and permanently. The smoke and soot settles on walls, ceilings, flooring, furniture, belongings, and behind walls, in cabinet cavities, under subfloors, and in attics and insulation. Opening the windows and turning on some fans is not an effective way to get rid of the smell. The soot and smoke residue must be properly cleaned and removed.

Is It Possible to Get Rid of Smoke Odor Without the Lingering Smell?

It is possible to successfully restore your home to pre-fire condition, and smell, after a fire. Proper procedure and standard of care must be taken to ensure the cleanup is done right. Here are some of the steps a professional restoration company will take when dealing with smoke damage:

Emergency response to assess the damage

Soot and residue cleaning using professional grade products and the right tools for the type of fire and smoke damage

Cleaning of the surfaces and textiles in the home including flooring, carpeting, clothing, bedding, and upholstery

Ozone treatment to destroy the odor-causing molecules by causing a chemical reaction in the air and on surfaces

Smoke odor cleaning using industrial air cleaners and air filtration systems with smoke particle removal filters

If you’ve had a fire in your home, you understand that one of the worst parts of the recovery is dealing with the smell. Smoke odor that hasn’t been properly treated and cleaned can make a home unlivable, sometimes permanently. It’s critical to make sure the restoration process after a fire is done properly by certified and experienced technicians who will take care of you and your home and get you back to life as you know it.

Contact Can-Restore for professional treatment to remove smoke odor by contacting us online or calling (770) 735-2695.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/remove-smoke-odor/feed/0What’s Required for Proper Water Extraction Help When There’s Water in My House?http://www.can-restore.com/water-extraction-help/
http://www.can-restore.com/water-extraction-help/#respondTue, 10 May 2016 13:27:13 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1206Why water extraction help is the most important thing you’ll learn about this summer. If you have water in your house, you need water extraction help. It doesn’t matter where the water came from, or why, the restoration process and dealing with the water damage is the same, and extraction is one of the mostRead more

]]>Why water extraction help is the most important thing you’ll learn about this summer.

If you have water in your house, you need water extraction help. It doesn’t matter where the water came from, or why, the restoration process and dealing with the water damage is the same, and extraction is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. Here’s the lowdown on what happens and what to expect when you have water in your house.

What Is Water Damage Restoration?

Restoration after a water damage isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s a need-to-have. Without proper restoration you could be facing extended time unable to live in your house, long-term issues as a result of the damage, or potentially even total property loss.

Restoration is the process of returning your home to its pre-damaged condition. This must take place no matter what level of damage you find after a leak or a flood. Although there are no actual government regulations regarding water damage cleanup, there are standards of care set by the industry and the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), the organization that certifies restoration companies and techs. These standards are set based on restoration principles, research, consultation, and experience gathered over time from a variety of sources.

Why Water Extraction Is So Important

Getting the water out of your house is the first and most important step to recovery after you’ve experienced the influx of water. And timing is critical. The longer water is left standing, the more damage it can do to your property, your belongings, and the actual structural soundness of your house. When a restoration company is called in, the first step is to assess the damage and create an action plan based on the circumstances, the cause of the water damage, and the amount of water present.

Once they have assessed the damage, technicians will begin the restoration process, which begins with water extraction, moves to drying, and finally to property and structure restoration. As long as the water is handled quickly, the chance for a full and successful restoration is good. If the damage is extensive, the process can take longer and require more work and labor.

What’s Required for Proper Water Extraction?

Many homeowners will find it tempting to pull out a wet/dry vacuum and try to pull up the water themselves. Not only is this a painstaking process, but it’s not very effective. Water will go everywhere, even where you can’t see it, and without the proper tools, some water and moisture could be left behind and continue to cause damage, including mold growth.

Certified technicians will follow some or all of these steps to ensure proper extraction:

Move out furniture, appliances, and other items that can be easily relocated to help make the process easier

Using submersible pumps, water is pumped out of the area

Industrial vacuums are used to continue the water removal process

Using tools that can extract water from under carpeting and flooring, water is pulled from the subfloor

Wall, ceiling, and cavity drying systems are used to access water that can’t be seen or reached otherwise

Industrial fans and blowers are brought in to help dry the area

Dehumidifiers are used to ensure excess moisture is treated before cleanup is considered complete

What’s Next after Water Extraction?

After water extraction is complete and the area has been thoroughly dried, the repair and property restoration can begin. This generally includes cleaning, deodorizing, mold removal, and air scrubbers in addition to the restoration of property, furniture, electronics, and documents. If demolition or rebuilding is required, this will also be handled during the repair and restoration process.

Water damage in your home can be a nightmare. Proper restoration techniques are required to ensure you’re back in your home, in its pre-damage condition, as quickly as possible. Contact Can-Restore for help with water damage restoration, which starts with water extraction, by visiting us online or calling (770) 735-2695.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/water-extraction-help/feed/06 Things Everyone Should Know About Filing Fire Insurance Claimshttp://www.can-restore.com/filing-fire-insurance-claims/
http://www.can-restore.com/filing-fire-insurance-claims/#respondTue, 26 Apr 2016 12:24:00 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1201Is filing fire insurance claims really the nightmare it seems to be? If you’re dealing with fire and smoke damage, you’re likely also dealing with filing fire insurance claims. They can be a bit overwhelming, but they don’t have to be the nightmare everyone assumes they are. With some simple advice, you too can surviveRead more

If you’re dealing with fire and smoke damage, you’re likely also dealing with filing fire insurance claims. They can be a bit overwhelming, but they don’t have to be the nightmare everyone assumes they are. With some simple advice, you too can survive the fire insurance claims process.

Here are 6 things everyone should know about fire insurance claims:

#1: Review Your Policy BEFORE You Need It

If you’re in the thick of dealing with fire and smoke damage, this won’t help you at all, but if you haven’t been the victim of a fire yet, now is the time to review your insurance policy. Many policies won’t cover all of your losses in the case of a fire, no matter how minor or major. So make sure you have enough protection to cover the value of your home and your belongings should the unthinkable occur.

#2: Contact the Insurance Company Second

If there is a fire in your home, the first call you make is to 911. The second call you make is to your insurance company. The quicker you can get the claims process started, the quicker you can get relief, assistance, and reimbursement. Even if you don’t have details about the damage yet, you can get the ball rolling with whatever information is available at the time.

#3: Know Your Home and Be Able to Describe It

If you have photos and video of your home this is going to be easy. Otherwise, it all has to come from your memory. If you have a small kitchen fire, this isn’t going to be as important, but if you have a devastating fire that is a partial or complete loss of your home, you will need to know whether you had drywall or plaster. What kind of roof did you have? What types of windows were installed? Did you have special fixtures or home security? These are just some of the questions to which you will need to know the answers.

#4: Know the Value of Your Home and Your Belongings

It might seem silly to keep track of every possession, and most of the time you won’t need it, but if there’s a fire you will be glad you have it. An easy way to do this is to go through your home and take photos or video of each room with a quick inventory of the items and their value. This will be incredibly important when filing a fire insurance claim.

#5: Understand Insurance for ALE

ALE stands for Additional Living Expenses, and this will change your life should you need a place to stay if a fire renders your home unlivable. Pay attention to your policy to make sure ALE is included, and be sure your agent handles the ALE claim for you properly. This will allow you to pay for a hotel or a rental home until your home is repaired or rebuilt.

#6: Contact a Fire Restoration Company

When the fire is out and everyone is safe and the house has been secured by the firefighters, it’s time to contact a restoration company. They will need to get on site as quickly as possible to address the damage. The faster they can start the cleanup and restoration process, the more likely it is you’ll have a complete and successful repair and recovery.

We all hope to never have to deal with fire and smoke damage in our homes. It’s the biggest fear of most homeowners and renters. If you do become the victim of a fire, it’s important to know the ins and outs of dealing with the aftermath, and to have the professionals on your side that can help guide you through it.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/filing-fire-insurance-claims/feed/0What’s the Most Common Type of Storm Damage Repair in the Spring and Summer?http://www.can-restore.com/storm-damages-repair/
http://www.can-restore.com/storm-damages-repair/#respondTue, 12 Apr 2016 11:11:15 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1197Storm damage repair is often a common part of summer. One of the necessary evils of spring and summer is storm damages repair. Damage to your home and property isn’t just relegated to winter, it’s often worse in the warmer months. When we think of storm damage our minds often go straight to flooding butRead more

One of the necessary evils of spring and summer is storm damages repair. Damage to your home and property isn’t just relegated to winter, it’s often worse in the warmer months.

When we think of storm damage our minds often go straight to flooding but some of the biggest issues when it comes to clean-up after a storm have to do with your outside living spaces. Strong winds, rain, and hail can cause your landscaping to get pulled up and torn down which can wreak havoc on your property and your home. And don’t forget about other items that can get picked up during a storm and become projectiles as well as hail and other storm elements that can cause damage all on their own.

Here’s a rundown of what to look out for when you may be facing storm damage repair:

Storm Damage from Trees

Trees can cause some of the worst damage when there’s a big spring or summer storm. High winds and lots of rain or hail can cause leaves to be shredded and stick to or even scratch your windows, clog your gutters, and even get wedged in your siding and roofing. And that’s just the start.

If the wind is strong enough it can lead to broken branches that can fall on your roof, break windows, damage siding, destroy outdoor furniture, and ruin expensive landscaping or even outbuildings or sheds. If the storm is severe enough it can even pull down entire trees, which can devastate or destroy a home if it falls through walls or breaks through the roof. And if a big enough tree falls on a car, it can crush it, not to mention what it can do to outdoor spaces, sidewalks, and walkways.

Patio Furniture and Storm Damage

In the South we often have huge storms with high winds. On occasion, those winds are strong enough to pick up furniture and send it sailing through the air. If you’re lucky, it will just land on the lawn, but in most cases it’s going to land someplace where it can do damage. This can include the pool, on top of other furniture, into a fence, through a window, or against the side of your home. Any of these can cause breakage enough to require at least some repair, if not extensive restoration work.

Wind and Hail Damage

Wind is such a huge factor in big spring and summer storms, especially those that cause damage. In addition to pulling down trees and breaking branches as well as kicking up furniture, it can also be bold enough to tear off roofing tiles, lift siding, and tear landscaping up and out of the dirt.

And did we mention hail? Hail is the worst! In the spring, as the weather changes from cool to warm, it’s not uncommon to get hail, and with it often comes roof damage, broken windows, holes in siding, torn window screens, and chipped paint.

When It’s Time for Repair after a Storm

Now that we’ve taken a look at what can happen during a spring or summer storm, what do we do about it? The key is the get a storm restoration company on site as quickly as possible. Here’s what our storm damage repair team at Can-Restore can do:

24/7 emergency response

Assess and evaluate the situation and the damages

Create an action plan for repairing and restoring your property

Tree removal and removal of branches

Water extraction should there be water in your home

Repair and restoration of belongings and property

Hopefully, you won’t fall victim to the seasonal storms we’ve become familiar with in our area; however, should you see the dark clouds forming, it’s good to be aware of some of the potential issues that could arise from the wind, rain, and hail that comes with them.

When damage does occur, be sure to address it as quickly as possible. Contact Can-Restore for help with storm damage repair by calling (770) 735-2695.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/storm-damages-repair/feed/0Why Is Smoke Damage Smell Removal Such a Big Deal?http://www.can-restore.com/smoke-damage-smell-removal/
http://www.can-restore.com/smoke-damage-smell-removal/#respondTue, 22 Mar 2016 15:01:22 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1180Find out how to make smoke damage smell removal successful. Who would imagine that smoke damage smell removal would be one of the most important steps in fire damage clean up? Most people think damage from the flames and the water would be the biggest obstacle to returning to their homes after a fire, butRead more

Who would imagine that smoke damage smell removal would be one of the most important steps in fire damage clean up? Most people think damage from the flames and the water would be the biggest obstacle to returning to their homes after a fire, but the truth is the smoke can make your home unlivable—even after the rest of the damage has been cleaned up.

What’s the Story with Fire Smoke?

Fire smoke has a very distinct odor. When you imagine summer parties with a fire pit or camping with a campfire, and you feel nostalgic about the smell of the smoke, that’s not what we’re talking about. The smell left behind after a house fire is beyond description. It is overwhelming, and not in a good way.

Fire smoke is made up of particles, both airborne solids and liquids that were emitted when the fuel burned. The fuel, in most cases, consists of the structural material of the home and the furniture, appliances, textiles, carpeting, flooring, and other items in the house. When these materials combust, the by-product of the burn is the smoke and soot.

When there is a lot of oxygen in a fire, there is less smoke which means less soot and residue. When there is less oxygen, the result is more soot, which is often made up of toxic compounds. Not only are they dangerous to people when inhaled or when they come in contact with skin, but they are incredibly corrosive and can break down materials quickly after the fire is out.

Why Is That Smoke Smell Everywhere?

Because smoke is made up of the airborne particles of whatever burned in the fire, it moves through your house and gets everywhere. Anything the smoke touches is going to have smoke residue on it. And where there’s smoke residue, there’s smoke odor.

There are different types of residue and various odors that go along with them. When organic materials, such as paper and wood, burn they leave behind a dusty ash that can be cleaned up rather easily. It often smells somewhat of a campfire, with that recognizable and not unpleasant smoke odor. The particles are very small and can move in the air into small spaces, including under flooring and behind walls.

Protein fires, such as those in a kitchen fire, leaves behind a greasy residue. This is harder to clean up and has a more pungent smell.

Synthetics, which are ever present in most homes, not only in plastic furniture, toys, and kitchenware, but also in carpeting, wallpaper, paints, furniture, textiles, and even appliances, are the most toxic when burned. The smoke carries poisonous gasses and can be incredibly dangerous, not to mention they can leave behind a hideous mess.

The smoke residue from synthetic materials is thick and smeary and sticks to everything. It takes special tools and training to clean up this type of fire damage. And worst of all, the smell is strong and incredibly hard to get rid of because of the way the particles stick to surfaces.

How Is Smoke Damage Cleaned Up?

Smoke damage is one of the worst parts of a house fire. When smoke is left behind, if it’s not treated and cleaned properly, it can make a house unlivable. There have been known cases of homeowners choosing to tear down a house and start over due to the overwhelming smell of smoke that can’t be treated because it wasn’t dealt with properly in the first place.

Smoke Damage Experts in Atlanta

Smoke damage removal is a science and a skill and requires professional expertise. There are a number of reliable products and tools that can assist in the process, including degreaser, odor counter-activator, ozone generators, air purification systems, and air filtration devices. The first step is to clean the residue up manually followed by air cleaning systems and processes to rid the home and the air inside of the smoke particles.

Smoke from a house fire is one of the strongest odors you will experience, and it’s a smell you will never forget. But instead of just living with it, get the proper clean-up and treatment so you can live in your home as you did before the fire disaster. To find out more, contact our team of experts at Can-Restore for help with smoke damage smell removal by calling (770) 735-2695.

]]>http://www.can-restore.com/smoke-damage-smell-removal/feed/0How Soon Can I Move Back into My House after Clean Up from Fire Damage?http://www.can-restore.com/clean-up-from-fire-damage/
http://www.can-restore.com/clean-up-from-fire-damage/#respondTue, 08 Mar 2016 15:48:46 +0000http://www.can-restore.com/?p=1174Learn what happens during and after clean up from fire damage. Are you facing cleanup from fire damage? A fire in your home is practically unthinkable, but if it happens, it’s certain your life will be changed forever. Fire is devastating and heartbreaking, terrifying and dangerous, emotional and life-altering. No matter how large or howRead more

Are you facing cleanup from fire damage? A fire in your home is practically unthinkable, but if it happens, it’s certain your life will be changed forever. Fire is devastating and heartbreaking, terrifying and dangerous, emotional and life-altering. No matter how large or how small the fire, it can cause severe damage, and it needs professional attention. And then there’s the question everyone wants to know: how soon can you move back into your house?

From the fire to the restoration, here’s everything you need to know about fire damage clean up:

What Will You Find after the Fire?

Fire can move at different speeds and leave behind different types damages depending on the fuel burned. Imagine a forest fire. When there’s been a drought and the trees and the grasses are dry, the fire can sweep through at enormous speed and leave behind nothing but ash and soot.

The same applies to a house. If it’s made up of mostly synthetic materials like those found in carpeting and many upholstery fabrics, the fire will move much more quickly than if there are a lot of organic materials such as solid wood and cotton or wool. And the debris left behind will be different as well.

When you see your home after a fire, you might be surprised to find more damage from the water used by the firefighters than damage from the fire. Although, depending on the size of the fire, you could see devastating damage from the flames, heat, and smoke in addition to the water. What wasn’t destroyed by flames is most likely destroyed or damaged by the smoke, soot, and water.

What Does Fire Damage Clean Up Look Like?

After you’ve called 911, and you and your family and your pets are safe, and you have called your insurance company, the next call will be to a fire restoration company. Immediate response is critical so that the restoration process can begin as quickly as possible. The longer the water, soot, and smoke residue sit the more damage they can do. As soon as the fire department gives the all clear and it’s safe to enter the building, the clean-up process can begin.

The first step is water extraction. Getting the water out and drying out your home is important to gain access to the rest of your home and to continue an active clean-up operation. Once the home is dry, the cleaning can begin. This includes walls, ceilings, flooring, appliances, upholstery, furniture, light fixtures, windows, and all of your belongings. Anything that was touched by the fire or smoke will need to be cleaned and restored.

Determining what is salvageable is part of the process. Any belongings that are too damaged for repair will be discarded. Other items that don’t have damage can either be left in the home or will be packed and stored by your restoration company until after the house is repaired. Anything with repairable damage will be repaired and restored to its previous condition. This includes everything from furniture to documents and appliances to electronics.

In addition to the cleaning, critical steps like smoke odor cleaning, air purification, ozone treatment, structural stabilization, and demolition, if necessary, will be done. Until this happens, it’s not only unsafe to return to your home; it will be largely unlivable due to the dangers from the soot and residue and the unbearable smoke odor left behind.

When Can I Return Home after a Fire?

Once the clean-up and restoration are complete, your home will be inspected to ensure it’s safe and structurally sound and that all of the repairs are up to code. At this point, you will be given the go-ahead to return to your home and life as you know it.

If you’re facing the aftermath of a fire, you don’t have to go it alone. Contact our expert team at Can-Restore for help with clean up from fire damage by calling (770) 735-2695.